I. Setting the Stage
On 30 August 2025, Nairobi’s Moi International Sports Centre (Kasarani) was electric. Two teams, worlds apart in experience but united by ambition, stood ready to write history: Madagascar, debutants in their first-ever CAF senior final, and Morocco, chasing a record-breaking third CHAN title after previous victories in 2018 and 2020 .
Madagascar—an island nation and Southern Africa’s first to reach a continental final—embodied youthful exuberance and resilience. Morocco represented the well-oiled machine of African football continental mastery .
II. The Journey to the Final
Morocco‘s path was built on consistency and pressure handling. Drawn in a tricky group, they advanced as runners-up and eliminated Senegal 5-3 on penalties in the semi-final after a 1-1 stalemate . This experience underscored their psychological fortitude and showcased their ability to thrive under high stakes.
Madagascar‘s run was the epitome of a CHAN fairytale. After a slow start, they gained momentum—especially in the knockout stages. The semi-final against Sudan saw them down to 10 men, only for Toky Rakotondraibe to emerge as a hero with a 116th-minute goal sending Madagascar into uncharted territory .
Their goalkeeper Michel “Toldo” Ramandimbisoa asserted himself as a pillar throughout the tournament, delivering three clean sheets and an astonishing 25 saves . Midfield dynamo Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa anchored creativity, leading with three assists and 11 chances created .
III. The Final: A Match of Two Legends
The final was a breathtaking battle:
- Opening Goal: Madagascar stunned the stadium as Clavin Félicité struck with a composed half-volley to draw first blood .
- Morocco Responds: Their experience shone when Youssef Mehri delivered another clinical pass—this time to Sabir Bougrine, who restored parity with a low, powerful finish .
- Second-Half Spark: The defining moment came from Oussama Lamlaoui, who unleashed a stunning 40-yard rocket over the keeper—securing both his brace and a spectacular winner .
- Late Pressure: Madagascar refused to bow out quietly: Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa pulled one back with a smart finish, setting up a frantic climax, but Morocco held firm to secure a 3-2 victory .
IV. Man of the Match: The Hero of the Hour
Without question, Oussama Lamlaoui was the standout performer:
- His opener showed lethal instincts in the box.
- His second was an unforgettable 40-yard audacious strike.
- He finished the tournament as top scorer—with six goals—topping the charts and sealing the title .
Lamlaoui’s brilliance not only inspired Morocco but also stamped his name in CHAN lore.
V. Prize Money: Richer in Glory—and Cash
CAF significantly boosted the stakes in this edition:
- Champion (Morocco) received USD 3.5 million—a 75% increase from previous editions .
- Runner-up (Madagascar) walked away with USD 1.2 million .
For Morocco, the win brought both pride and financial reward. For Madagascar, the silver symbolized both breakthrough and a welcome windfall to elevate the sport’s development back home.
VI. The Significance of This Final
Morocco: A Legacy Cemented
- With three CHAN titles, Morocco now stands as the tournament’s most successful nation .
- Their blend of experience, tactical discipline, and key performers like Mehri and Lamlaoui proved decisive .
Madagascar: A Nation’s Pride Reborn
- Their debut final, resilience, and underdog narrative captured imaginations across Africa.
- This run has underlined the power of belief, discipline, and unity—even under financial or logistical limitations .
VII. A Tale of Two Philosophies
This final was a masterclass in contrasts:
- Morocco’s Formula: Structured, tactically mature, and lethal when chances appeared.
- Madagascar’s Spirit: High energy, mental steel, and daring transitions—notably through bench heroes like Rakotondraibe .
In the end, Morocco’s composure under pressure outlasted Madagascar’s inspiring charge—but this match belonged to both.
VIII. Final Thoughts
The CHAN 2024 final between Madagascar and Morocco was more than a football match—it was a story of destiny, wolves and lambs, dreams and determination. Morocco emerged victorious, earning their place atop CHAN history. Meanwhile, Madagascar returned home heroes, their legacy defined not by silver but by the brave new path they carved.
Key takeaways:
- Scoreline: Morocco 3, Madagascar 2.
- Man of the Match: Oussama Lamlaoui (Morocco).
- Prize Money: USD 3.5 million (Morocco), USD 1.2 million (Madagascar).